URBANA, Ill. – You may or may not see the UnityPoint Health name around the Peoria area much longer.
Officials with Iowa-based UnityPoint and Urbana-based Carle Health are exploring what the two entities call an “integration and potential partnership” in central Illinois.
They say two non-binding letters of intent have been signed — one that would bring the three UnityPoint Health hospitals in Peoria and Pekin under the Carle name, and another that will “evaluate system-to-system opportunities for collaboration and efficiency,” according to a news release.
“By combining our strengths in care delivery, health insurance, research, and medical education, we are uniquely positioned to improve health in our communities and lower the overall cost of care,” said Keith Knepp, MD, regional president and CEO, UnityPoint Health – Central Illinois, in the news release. “We look forward to working together to share expertise, advocate effectively on behalf of those we collectively serve, and help grow and sustain our healthcare workforce in the region.”
Carle and UnityPoint say the goal will be to, among other things, enhance access to health care, and possibly even lower costs.
If there is a final approval, the deal could close in mid-to-late 2022.
UnityPoint is based in Des Moines, Iowa, and has facilities from Des Moines to the Quad Cities and Peoria, while Carle Health is based in Urbana.
